Arthritic Diseases: Fibroblasts and Tissue Destruction

Join us for an engaging webinar focused on the intricate interplay between fibroblasts and arthritic diseases. Our panel of experts will unravel mechanisms behind tissue damage and repair, discussing fibroblast activation, collagen overproduction, and scar tissue formation.

Discover how blood-based biomarkers of extracellular matrix destruction offer insights into treatment effectiveness and patient well-being. Our speakers will also give insights into PRIME cells' role in rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups and delve into the molecular underpinnings of symptoms like pain and morning stiffness.

Speaker line-up and talking points:

• Dr. Adam Croft (Professor of Translational Rheumatology, University of Birmingham): Fibroblast Activation in Arthritis
• Dr. Dana Orange (Associate Professor of Clinical Investigation, Rockefeller University and Assistant Attending of Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery): PRIME cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares
• Dr. Anne Bay-Jensen (CTO, Director of ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience): Identification of Fibrotic and Fibrolytic Endotypes in Rheumatic Disease Cohorts

Abstract

Fibroblasts are responsible for producing collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, which form the scaffolding of tissues. In arthritic diseases, fibroblasts activate and produce excessive amounts of collagen and other matrix proteins. This leads to the formation of scar tissue, or fibrosis, which can damage joints and other tissues. PRIME cells are fibroblast-like cells that can be found in blood and heralds rheumatoid arthritis flare.

Tissue destruction and fibroblast activity can be quantified by blood markers of extracellular matrix destruction and remodeling. Data show that such destruction and fibroblast activity markers are associated with drug efficacy and patient-reported outcomes. There is growing interest in developing new therapies that target fibroblasts and fibrosis in arthritic diseases. These therapies could potentially slow the progression of disease and improve patient outcomes.

This webinar will discuss the latest research in this area, including the role of fibroblasts in arthritic diseases, the development of new therapies, and the potential for actionable and available blood biomarkers to be used to monitor disease progression, treatment response and for finding druggable endotypes in clinical research.

The ECM Pharmacology Symposium Series is a close ongoing collaboration with The Extracellular Matrix Pharmacology Congress.